National Assembly Approves International Cultural Event Support Act, WYD Preparations Proceeding Smoothly.
With the 2027 Seoul World Youth Day just over a year away, bills containing the basis for supporting the event are being proposed and passed one after another. The International Cultural Events Support Act was passed at the National Assembly plenary session on March 31. The bill was introduced by the Democratic Party of Korea, with 14 other lawmakers participating in its proposal. Explaining the rationale behind the bill, the lawmakers stated, "Since there is no law specifically tailored to international cultural events, there have been limitations in implementing related policies, which have relied on individual ministry projects or local government ordinances." They further explained, "Therefore, there is a need to clarify the responsibilities of the state and local governments to provide institutional support for the smooth attraction and hosting of international cultural events and cultural exchange activities." The bill stipulates the responsibilities of the state and local governments to provide institutional support for the smooth attraction and hosting of international cultural events and cultural exchange activities. Article 3 of the bill includes provisions stating that “the state and local governments shall establish and implement necessary policies and devise support measures,” and that “the state and local governments shall cooperate with each other and strengthen cooperation with the private sector to support the hosting of international cultural events.” The Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is responsible for overseeing and coordinating policies on event hosting support.A Representative from the Democratic Party, who participated in the bill's proposal, stated, "While it is regrettable that the bill was not processed as a special act supporting Seoul WYD, it is significant that the National Assembly cooperated across party lines to pass a general act." He added, "Although it is a general act, we will carefully examine every detail to ensure nothing is missing and continue to ensure that it achieves an effect comparable to a special act." He further noted, "As this event brings together a large number of people from around the world and transcends religious sects to address matters related to the status of the Republic of Korea, I expect broad understanding and cooperation from other religions as well."
In addition, two related ordinance bills have been proposed in the Seoul Metropolitan Council.
The ordinance bill includes provisions defining the scope of support plans and implementation by the Mayor of Seoul and the Superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education. It also includes matters related to preparing for smooth operations, such as securing facilities, ensuring safety and maintenance, establishing cooperative programs, consulting with relevant ministries, and pre-recruiting volunteers.
Director of Planning at the Seoul WYD Organizing Committee stated, "I am very pleased that the General Act on International Cultural Events has finally passed the plenary session." He added, "I hope the General Act is transferred to the government as soon as possible and publicly announced quickly so that there are no setbacks in supporting Seoul WYD." He further requested, "Please pray that the government and local authorities recognize the importance of Seoul WYD and work together to make it a safe and wonderful event."
